The MS program provides students with a strong foundation in statistical analysis and its application to the field of health sciences. Our MS program provides students with the tools and expertise to work on critical research projects, clinical trials, and epidemiological studies. Graduates play a pivotal role in implementing valid statistical tools in the analysis of complex health data, contributing to better decision-making, improved patient outcomes, and advancements in public health practices.
Specific requirements outlined on this page regarding credit hour totals apply to the cohort matriculating in 2026. Course titles, numbers, and credit hours change over time. For degree audit concerns, contact the Graduate Program Manager (GPM), who will coordinate with the Office of the äçÐÄvlogÃâ·ÑBÕ¾ Registrar in consultation with the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) as needed.
Core Courses (31 credit hours)
| Course Number | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| EPID 8311 | Epidemiologic Theory and Methods I | 4 |
| BIOS 6311 | Modern Biostatistics Methodology I | 4 |
| BIOS 6312 | Modern Biostatistics Methodology II | 4 |
| BIOS 6321 | Clinical Trials and Experimental Design | 3 |
| BIOS 6341 | Fundamentals of Probability | 4 |
| BIOS 6342 | Contemporary Statistical Inference | 4 |
| BIOS 6351 | Scientific Writing and Presentation in the Health Sciences | 2 |
| BIOS 7323 | Applied Survival Analysis | 3 |
| BIOS 7352 | Statistical Collaboration in the Health Sciences | 3 |
Modifications may be made with written approval from the DGS as part of an individualized academic plan.
Electives (9 credit hours)
| Course Number | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| BIOS 7330 | Regression Modeling Strategies | 3 |
| BIOS 7337 | Bayesian Data Analysis | 3 |
| BIOS 7345 | Linear and Generalized Linear Models | 3 |
| BIOS 7346 | Longitudinal Data Analysis | 3 |
| BIOS 7365 | Probabilistic Machine Learning and Statistical Modeling | 3 |
| BIOS 7375 | Causal Inference | 3 |
| BIOS 7393 | Independent Study in Biostatistics | 3 |
Although meeting elective requirements through completion of 7000-level electives is strongly recommended, 8000-level electives may qualify with written approval from the DGS; enrollment in an 8000-level course may also require permission of the instructor. A maximum of one graduate course in another field can qualify with written approval from the DGS; students are responsible for covering tuition associated with electives not receiving DGS approval.
Research
| Course Number | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| BIOS 6999 | Master's Capstone Research in Biostatistics | 0-6 |
MS students must register for BIOS 6999 at least once throughout their studies. Please contact the GPM and/or DGS for questions regarding research credits.
MS Theory and Applied Comprehensive Exams
Students are expected to take the MS theory exam upon completion of BIOS 6342, and the MS applied exam upon completion of BIOS 6312. Possible final outcomes include PhD-level Pass, MS-level Pass, and Not Passed. Students who do not pass at the MS level on a first attempt must take the exam again the following year; failure to do so on a second attempt results in dismissal from the program. See the page on comprehensive exams for more details.
MS Capstone
Students must complete an MS Capstone detailing an original investigation and present their research as part of our annual Biostatistics Research Day. See the MS Capstone page for more details.
I was attracted to the biostatistics graduate program by its size and location. My two years as an MS student gave me a great foundation in statistical methods and collaboration skills that are valuable to employers in many different fields.
This page is for information only and subject to change without notice. Official degree requirements are listed in the Graduate School catalog.